My new ball python is wheezing after a moldy cage. Does he need a vet?

Bowie looks as if he is going into a shed. If you're saying he has recently shed, the blue eyes may indicate infection or other condition. The wheezing is concerning since it may indicate a respiratory infection (RI). Ideally, Bowie should be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. If a RI is diagnosed, antibiotics can be administered or dispensed.

Any new pet should be examined by a veterinarian within 72 hours of arriving home to confirm good health or to treat any preexisting conditions. If she is having difficulty breathing, she should be seen sooner rather than later in case she has or is developing a respiratory infection. Monitor for lethargy or discharge from the nose or mouth. Increase humidity or soak in warm water to facilitate shedding. You can also use commercial shed sprays that can be purchased online or in most pet stores. Follow this link for more information regarding care of ball pythons: http://www.anapsid.org/ball.html

A respiratory infection will need to be diagnosed and treated by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. Antibiotics are typically required to treat RI. Other symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, discharge from the nose or mouth and gaping (resting with the mouth wide open). During the exam, your vet can examine Kaa's eyes to diagnose retained eye caps. He or she should be able to remove them. In the meantime, monitor temperature and humidity. Soak Kaa in a warm bath to facilitate shedding if there are still "bits" remaining.

You will not be able to treat a respiratory infection without antibiotics. You will need to get him to a vet. You may have to travel a ways to get to one. I suggest you try this clinic. It's the closest exotic vet I could find to the zip code you provided. ( https://loyalsockanimal.net/exotics/ )

Confirm correct cage temps and humidity levels. Ideally, a thermometer and hygrometer should be placed at each end of the encosure. Monitor for lethargy, loss of appetite or discharge from the eyes or nose. These can all indicate respiratory infection. Have her examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose infection or injury. More information regarding environmental parameters can be found here: http://www.anapsid.org/bearded.html

Thanks for reaching out about Lilith. Check and correct husbandry parameters for temperature range. Try increasing to 90-95 F in the warm end, to try and stimulate the immune system. Continue to monitor for nasal discharge or increased oral mucous. If the condition progresses, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

Check her mouth for foreign bodies, injury or infection if she allows. Monitor for persistent or worsening symptoms and have her examined by your vet or a vet experienced in treating reptiles if necessary. If she is behaving and eating normally otherwise, it may be simply something unique she does.